A SPECIAL school in Bromsgrove has had its residential arm closed until further notice and been placed in special measures due to 'serious and widespread failures'.

Hunters Hill College, on Spirehouse Lane, Blackwell, has been rated 'inadequate' in three of four categories by education watchdog Ofsted.

Its residential arm, known as Hunters Hill (Residential) School, was also labelled 'inadequate' in three inspection categories.

The college - which caters for 115 male pupils aged 11-16 - was graded 'inadequate' in quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, and leadership and management.

Hunters Hill - which provides education for pupils with autism and social, emotional and mental health needs - also 'requires improvement' in personal development.

The inspection was carried out following a number of complaints to Ofsted that raised serious concerns.

Ofsted's inspection report said: "The school is failing its pupils. The quality of education is poor.

"Some teachers try to raise standards in their subject. But too many staff accept low standards of work and poor behaviour. This poor behaviour is stopping pupils from learning.

"Pupils do not study music or a modern foreign language. This may limit their options in future.

"Staff do not know enough about autism spectrum disorder. Work set for some of these pupils does not challenge them.

"Staff morale is low. Staff do not always feel supported by leaders. As a result, the level of staff absence is high.

"Arrangements for safeguarding are not effective. At times, pupils' safety is at risk because staff do not manage their behaviour well.

"All pupils have additional needs. Staff are not meeting these needs.

"The inspector is of the opinion that this school requires special measures because it is failing to give its pupils an acceptable standard of education.

"The persons responsible for leading, managing or governing the school are not demonstrating the capacity to secure the necessary improvement."

The residential arm of the school can house 32 students but has been closed since the end of the summer term after 'a number of alleged safeguarding concerns'.

Ofsted's report detailed 20 bullet points where the residential school did not meet minimum standards including cleanliness, welfare, behaviour and record-keeping.

"This catalogue of shortfalls means that children are not helped and protected," the report added.

"There are serious and widespread failures in how children's care has been managed."

The school is maintained by Birmingham City Council, which has placed two leaders in the school this year.

A council spokesperson said: "The Ofsted report highlights significant issues at Hunters Hill.

"We will continue to work closely with the leadership team to support them in driving through sustainable improvements so that all children get the education they need and deserve.”